If this year’s FIFA World Cup introduced you to the small West African island country of Cape Verde, you should know there’s much more to the nation beyond its spirited, talented, and persevering players.
Cape Verde is the English name for the country, which is officially and internationally known as Cabo Verde, a remnant of its former Portuguese colonization. Locals, who speak Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu), may call the country Kabu Verdi or Kabu Verd depending on the island. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, around 385 miles from Senegal’s coast, Cape Verde comprises 10 volcanic islands and five islets. The 10 main islands are divided into two main categories: the Barlavento (Windward/northern) islands (Santo Antão, São Vicente, Sal, São Nicolau, Boa Vista, and Santa Luzia) and the Sotavento (Leeward/southern) islands (Maio, Santiago, Fogo, and Brava). The country’s national soccer team is nicknamed the Blue Sharks, or “Tubarões Azuis” in Portuguese.
Their strong play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has placed the island country’s team in the hearts and minds of many. After qualifying for the global soccer championship for the first time ever, Cape Verde’s national team experienced a meteoric rise to stardom as viewers worldwide recognized the players’ determined athleticism and heartfelt passion. Moreover, people have been captivated by the team’s powerful success as underdogs — which took them all the way to a matchup with Argentina, the 2022 World Cup champions, whom Cape Verde lost to in an intense 3-2 knockout-round game July 3.
What’s more, this isn’t the first time Cape Verde has flexed its people’s soccer finesse. Fans of the globally beloved sport may recall that in 2024, the Cape Verdean team reached the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a major continental championship in which national teams compete for a title.
What Makes Cape Verde Special?
Why You Should Visit
There are many reasons why Cape Verde should be on your travel radar, especially if you’ve never visited before. If you’re in need of some vitamin D, the island country boasts around 350 days of sunshine annually, with temps generally in the 70s and 80s (degrees Fahrenheit).
Cape Verde offers an array of travel experiences that will be cherished by fans of laid-back island escapes where they can also enjoy outdoor and water activities. With island hopping and on-time transportation schedules, a well-planned itinerary could include hiking Fogo’s active volcano and experiencing the beaches and nightlife of Sal, Boa Vista, or Santiago. The latter island is home to Cape Verde’s capital, Praia, where tourists can sink into local culture, the country’s colonial past, and its post-independence trajectory.
Another reason to visit Cape Verde is its unique cultural composition, which includes influences from parts of West Africa, as well as Portugal and Brazil.
Where Can People Experience Cape Verdean Culture In The United States?
Pockets of New England can make for great explorations of Cape Verdean culture in the U.S. If you’re looking for proximity to the island country’s diaspora, head to Boston or East Falmouth in Massachusetts, or Pawtucket in Rhode Island. During your visits, look out for eateries serving hearty cachupa and museums filled with Cape Verdean histories.
